Leppert: Big D Doesn't Need to Boycott Arizona

Mayor urges city leaders to focus on local issues

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Mayor Tom Leppert is urging city leaders to remain focused on local issues of concern.

Dallas Mayor Tom Leppert said the city should pass on protesting Arizona's new immigration law.

Several Dallas council members said the city should take a formal stand against Arizona's new law. The law takes effect this summer and allows police to ask for proof of legal status if they believe the person.

Leppert said Tuesday that city leaders should focus on local issues such as the city budget.

"Through most of its recent history, the Dallas City Council has chosen not to get into divisive debates or take positions on issues that do not directly involve the city of Dallas," he said in a statement. "I believe that is a wise course to follow. We are focused on bringing businesses, conventions and trade to Dallas, continuing to improve public safety, tackle the budget challenges without a tax hike and generally move the city forward. That is what Dallas voters put us here to do and I believe that is where our council’s energy should be focused.”

Several cities across the country have passed resolutions that call for a boycott on business with businesses in Arizona. Austin city leaders voted unanimously to ban official travel to Arizona. Los Angeles, San Francisco and St. Paul, Minn., city councils have passed similar ordinances.

Published at 7:24 PM CDT on May 18, 2010 | Updated at 1:45 PM CDT on Jun 30, 2011